Car Key Repair - How to Fix a Dead Remote

Car remotes provide a great convenience to drivers. They can unlock doors, open trunks, and even start the car. However, they may stop working at inconvenient times.

Before you head to the dealer, you can try a few quick solutions when your key fob stops functioning. These suggestions could save you money.

Keyless Entry System

Rather than needing to fumble around with keys in your purse or pocket Instead of fumbling around with keys in your purse or pocket, you can stroll up to your car, push a button on the key fob and then unlock the doors and start the engine. It's a convenient feature that has made the world of car driving more enjoyable and safer. The keyless entry system, as any other device, may be damaged by repeated use or by other causes. If you've had issues with yours, you have two options: visit the dealership or contact a local locksmith.

The way that a keyless entry system operates is by sending radio signals and then looking for a corresponding response from the key fob. If the system is able to recognize the signal, the vehicle's doors are not locked and the onboard computer activated. Some systems include another receiver mounted on the trunk of the car, which opens it automatically when you put your foot under it.

Each key fob comes with an unique digital identification code that is assigned by the manufacturer. The fob is programmed by a proprietary process called "programming". This usually involves turning the car's ignition several times in a certain sequence. It could also involve pushing or pulling various levers and buttons or the removal of fuses.

Once a key fob has been programmed into your car's keyless system it transmits a digital identity code and a function code that instruct the car to (lock or unlock the trunk). The receiver on the car verifies the transmitter's identity through an authentication and encryption process. The computer in the car will allow the vehicle to be opened and start the engine if it is authorized.

There are fears that a skilled criminal could intercept the code transmitted between the key fob and the car. This would require a specific device to record the transmission and then retransmit it in the event that the system doesn't anticipate it. Most keyless entry systems use the rolling code method to prevent this. This ensures that every new signal from a transmitter received by a car has a counter value that is different from the previous one.

Batteries

The most frequent cause of a car remote key fob not working is the battery is dead. If you have an extra key fob, it's a cheap and easy fix. Fortunately, most fobs utilize traditional watch-style batteries which can be purchased in hardware stores or big-box retailers for as little as $10. A quick search of the internet or in your vehicle's owner's manual should give you instructions on how to take apart your key fob and swap out the battery.

Be cautious not to damage any antennas or circuits in the case once you've removed your battery. They are likely holding the key fob's program to your specific car and tampering with them can cause it to become impossible to program (and probably not work). If you must move them, do so very gently because some key fobs come with fasteners that easily open and scatter key fob parts across your living room.

Most key fobs come with one hole that allows an screwdriver or similar tool to pop open the case. However, it's a good idea to use your tool to wedge it around the outside of the case first, just as you would peeling an apple or orange. Don't apply too much pressure, as the case of the fob is usually made of plastic and may crack or break if you apply too much force to it.

Make sure you match the size and style of the battery to the key fob when you replace it. Some key fobs come with two batteries while others need one. The wrong battery can render your remote keyfob useless.

If the issue persists, you can try again with your key fob after installing the new battery. If it doesn't it, you'll have to determine if your fob has an issue that's more complex that requires professional diagnosis and repair. You may have to have the key fob reprogrammed by an authorized dealer or purchase an entirely new one.

Buttons

The buttons on your key fob are pretty tiny, and filled with delicate electronics. Therefore, it's not surprising that they're doomed to fail from time time. The good news is, if your car key button fails to function, there's typically something you can do to fix it yourself.

One of the most frequent reasons why a car remote key repair shop near me key remote key fob repair near me fails to function is that dirt or crud has accumulated between the buttons. To fix this, remove the batteries with care and scrub each button with an abrasive that has been dipped into rubbing alcohol. Make sure you dry the batteries completely before reinstalling them.

It's possible that the key fob was damaged in some way, possibly dropped on concrete, or perhaps damaged by something sharp. If this is the scenario, you can test the function of your broken key repair fob using another one.

Another possibility is that the door lock sensor in your vehicle has stopped working. This sensor is a small metal part that is attached to the key fob's door lock button. It's not common for it to fail due to weather conditions or long use. Press your key button several times without locking or unlocking your doors. This resets the sensor.

If all other options fail, you can always test the operation of a spare key by trying to open and close your doors using it. If the spare key does not work, you may need to call a locksmith 24 hours a day who can repair your car keys to make your remote car key repair work again.

You can reprogram your computer if your car's key button works however it cannot lock or unlock your vehicle. If you've had the same key fob a time, it might need to be reprogrammed every couple of months to to work with your vehicle. It's not the most ideal solution, but it's better than having to purchase an entirely new remote.